In a significant development, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has instructed universities nationwide to cease admissions for the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) course for the upcoming 2023-24 session, citing the degree’s lack of recognition. UGC Secretary Manish Joshi has also cautioned prospective students against enrolling in any MPhil programs offered by Indian universities.
The directive, issued on December 27, comes in response to the UGC’s observation that certain universities are actively soliciting applications for the MPhil program. Manish Joshi, as quoted by news agency PTI, emphasized, “It has come to the notice of the UGC that a few universities are inviting fresh applications for the MPhil (Master of Philosophy) programme. In this regard, it is to bring to the notice that the MPhil degree is not a recognized degree.”
He further pointed to Regulation No. 14 of the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations, 2022, which explicitly prohibits higher educational institutions from offering any MPhil programs. Joshi advised prospective students, stating, “Students are advised not to take admission in any MPhil program.”
This move raises concerns amid a surge in the establishment of private universities across the country. Recent statistics from the Ministry of Education reveal that, within the last five years, a staggering 140 private universities have been established, with Gujarat leading the tally, followed by Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh as reported by Livemint.
Gujarat has witnessed the establishment of 28 private universities during this period, while Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have seen 15 and 14 universities respectively. Additionally, Karnataka and other states have contributed to this trend, with a total of 10 universities being established in the last five years.
A senior education ministry official clarified the process, stating, “A private university is established by an Act passed by the state legislature concerned and Notification issued by the state government concerned. The name of a private university is included in the list of universities by the University Grants Commission (UGC) as per Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, 1956, on receipt of the copies of the Act and notification from the university.”
As the UGC takes a firm stance on the recognition of degrees, aspiring students are advised to exercise caution and adhere to the guidelines set forth by the regulatory body. The surge in private university establishments prompts a closer look at the accreditation process, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to regulatory standards in the realm of higher education.
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